The judges scored the bout 115-113 for Barrios and two cards of 114-114, leaving many fans feeling Pacquiao had done enough to win. The former eight-division world champion showed flashes of his old self throughout the twelve rounds.
After the fight, Pacquiao shared his thoughts:
"I thought I won the fight. Barrios is very tough and a wonderful fighter. It was hard. I worked hard and had discipline. I'm trying to find a way to finish the fight but my opponent was so tough and not careless. Now I'm more careful. I'm more experienced and more tactical fighter than compared to before."
Pacquiao's performance at 46 years old left many in awe. He added:
"It's inspiration to all boxers that if you have discipline and hard work you can still fight. I'm so thankful to god because without god Manny Pacquiao is not here."
The boxing legend's future remains uncertain, but he seems likely to continue fighting. When asked about his plans, Pacquiao said:
"I think so. I think so. God willing. Yes, of course [I want the rematch]."
Pacquiao admitted his preparation wasn't ideal. He explained:
"I only [had] two months training. In a championship fight like this I should train three months because of election in the Philippines I started late."
Looking ahead, Pacquiao plans to adjust his style:
"I need more aggressor style and more throwing punches. That's my style."
Barrios, when asked about a potential rematch, simply replied, "absolutely."
Pacquiao's attempt to win a world title at 46 years old has certainly caught the boxing world's attention. The Filipino icon remains focused on his legacy:
"That's the only legacy I can leave behind. To give inspiration to the Filipino people and be proud."
With both fighters open to a rematch, fans might get to see these two warriors square off again in the near future.